The “Manga Hokusai Manga” exhibition has officially opened its doors at the Saudi Arabia Museum of Contemporary Art (SAMoCA) in the Jax district of Diriyah, marking its first ever presentation in an Arab country and a significant milestone in Saudi Arabia’s burgeoning cultural landscape. The exhibition, which launched on January 15th, 2025, is a collaborative effort between the Embassy of Japan and the Japan Foundation, and is set to run until February 8th, 2025. However, other sources indicate the exhibition may run until May 25th, 2025, so it is advisable to confirm with the museum. This international exhibition has been touring since 2016.
A Celebration of Cultural Exchange
The “Manga Hokusai Manga” exhibition is more than just an art display; it represents a crucial step in fostering cross-cultural exchange and dialogue. The timing of the exhibition is particularly poignant, as 2025 marks the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Saudi Arabia and Japan. This event underscores the commitment of both nations to strengthening their ties through cultural initiatives.
The exhibition provides a unique opportunity to explore the historical roots and global influence of manga, tracing its evolution from classical beginnings to its modern, globally recognized form. It allows visitors to delve into the cultural dialogues that exist where past meets present, where heritage blends with creativity, and where Japan’s artistic legacy resonates across borders.
The Genius of Katsushika Hokusai
At the heart of the exhibition lies the work of the renowned Japanese artist, Katsushika Hokusai (1760-1849). Hokusai, a key figure in traditional Japanese art, is best known for his iconic woodblock print, “The Great Wave off Kanagawa,” from the series “Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji.” However, this exhibition focuses on his collection titled “Hokusai Manga,” first published in 1814.
Hokusai Manga: A Pioneer of Visual Storytelling
“Hokusai Manga” is a collection of over 4,000 sketches across 15 volumes, that depict various aspects of daily life, landscapes, and whimsical creatures. The sketches showcase a new era in Japanese illustration art, moving away from formal subjects to more informal and freeform expressions. It demonstrates Hokusai’s remarkable ability to capture the essence of the body in motion with spontaneity and sketch-like quality.
Originally intended as a reference for his students to emulate, the “Hokusai Manga” became a bestseller, expanding to 15 volumes with over 4,000 images. These volumes, printed in three colors – black, gray, and pale flesh – were initially used as a way to instruct Hokusai’s students. They eventually became very popular with the public, finding their way to the highest ranks of society to common people.
The term “manga” itself has an interesting history. Hokusai used the term to describe his sketches, which translates to “diverse,” “random,” “rambling,” or “capricious” drawings. Originally, it signified a wide assortment of drawings, but it later adopted its modern meaning of satirical picture around 1900 with the emergence of modern newspapers and became a part of everyday language in the 1920s.
Exploring the Exhibition
The exhibition is designed to highlight the connections between Hokusai’s work and contemporary manga. It showcases how Hokusai’s classical illustrations have significantly influenced modern visual arts, particularly in storytelling techniques. The exhibition includes panels, books, videos, and new works by contemporary manga artists, inviting viewers to ponder their own notions about manga by comparing works from different periods.
The exhibition delves into the genre, pictorial storytelling and participatory culture of manga from different periods. It aims not for historical verification of influences, but rather invites the viewer to explore their own perceptions of manga.
The Influence of Hokusai on Manga
Hokusai’s work wasn’t only influential in Japan, but it also had a profound impact on the Western art world. Copies of “Hokusai Manga” were transported to Europe as cushioning for shipments of Japanese porcelain, leading to shockwaves in the late 19th-century Paris art scene and triggering Japonism. His dynamic compositions, bold rendering, and creativity inspired Impressionist artists like Manet, Monet, and Degas, as well as artisans like Émile Gallé, and artists like Vincent van Gogh and Paul Gauguin.
Hokusai’s approach to art, where he incorporated western techniques such as tenebrism and perspective, also influenced manga art. His use of paneling and double-page spreads made a significant impression on modern Japanese manga.
SAMoCA: A Hub for Contemporary Art
The Saudi Arabia Museum of Contemporary Art (SAMoCA), located in the JAX district of Diriyah, is the first contemporary art museum in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It serves as a dynamic hub for artistic expression and cultural exploration, showcasing both local and international talent. The museum is aligned with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which seeks to build a vibrant community of artists and creators.
SAMoCA’s mission is to play a vital role in cultivating a contemporary art ecosystem, and empower local artists. The museum aims to be a place where local and international artists connect, converge and grow.
The Jax district itself is a creative haven, designed to host a myriad of pioneering programs and events, of which “Manga Hokusai Manga” is a notable example.
Visiting the Exhibition
Tickets for the “Manga Hokusai Manga” exhibition are available through WeBook. The museum is located in the Jax district in Diriyah, a part of Riyadh.
The exhibition provides an exceptional glimpse into the history and evolution of manga through the artist’s magnificent artworks and its influence in modern contemporary art.
